“ Caution is when men do ingeniously and discreetly avoid to be put into those things for which they are not proper ”
Francis Bacon, The Advancement of Learning (1605). copy citation
| Author | Francis Bacon |
|---|---|
| Source | The Advancement of Learning |
| Topic | caution |
| Date | 1605 |
| Language | English |
| Reference | |
| Note | |
| Weblink | http://www.gutenberg.org/files/5500/5500-h/5500-h.htm |
Context
“Cave ne insuetus rebus majoribus videaris, si hæc te res parva sicuti magna delectat.
(32) But the covering of defects is of no less importance than the valuing of good parts; which may be done likewise in three manners—by caution, by colour, and by confidence. Caution is when men do ingeniously and discreetly avoid to be put into those things for which they are not proper; whereas contrariwise bold and unquiet spirits will thrust themselves into matters without difference, and so publish and proclaim all their wants. Colour is when men make a way for themselves to have a construction made of their faults or wants, as proceeding from a better cause or intended for some other purpose.”
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